You finally get the vaccine, step out of the clinic, and then the questions begin. Will you get a fever tonight? Is arm pain normal? How long will the tiredness last? Many people feel slightly nervous after any vaccination, not because vaccines are unsafe, but because the body can react in ways that feel unfamiliar. The good news is that most reactions are mild and temporary, and they're actually a sign that your immune system is doing its job.
This article explains what you can realistically expect after getting a pneumococcal shot, including the benefits, common side effects, and the warning signs that should not be ignored.
Bacterial infections can cause pneumococcal disease. Infections caused by bacteria have serious effects on the lungs, bloodstream, and brain. Pneumococcal disease is especially dangerous for infants, toddlers, and children under five years old, as well as older adults and those who suffer from certain chronic illnesses like diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other types of heart disease.
Vaccination against pneumococcal disease creates a stronger immune response to bacteria and therefore reduces the time to infection or hospitalisation due to a serious case of pneumococcal disease. There are effects beyond the immediate consequences of illness; vaccination is also meant to protect against complications that may take weeks or months to heal.
When you receive a vaccine, your body prepares to fight off infection from the virus/bacteria. The vaccine educates your immune system about the virus/bacteria, allowing your body to mount an effective response when re-exposed. You may notice mild side effects after receiving the vaccine as your immune system responds.
Some of the more common side effects include arm pain and a slight fever as your body builds antibodies against that specific viral/bacterial strain. In most people, these side effects are seen purely as an immune response, not an indication that your body is infected with the virus/bacteria.
The most notable benefit of this vaccine is its ability to protect high-risk individuals from developing severe pneumonia.
Some of the benefits of receiving this vaccine include:
Reduced chances of developing pneumonia or other severe respiratory infections.
Decreased risks of being admitted to a hospital because of a bacterial lung infection.
Reduced susceptibility to getting a bacterial infection in the bloodstream or developing meningitis because of pneumococci.
Increased protection against pneumonia and other serious illnesses for older adults and those who have chronic diseases.
Reduced incidence of pneumonia in people with recurrent respiratory infections.
Prevenar 13, which contains the pneumococcal vaccine, protects against a variety of pneumococcal strains. It offers additional protection for elderly individuals and very young children and may help prevent bad cases of pneumonia and similar infections in these individuals.
It's important to remember, however, that no vaccine offers complete protection, and many vaccinated individuals have experienced serious illness following the development of pneumonia due to pneumococci. However, vaccinated individuals who contract pneumococcal pneumonia often have milder illnesses than unvaccinated individuals.
Most people feel completely fine after vaccination. But some experience mild side effects for a day or two.
Common side effects include:
Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
Mild fever
Body aches
Fatigue or tiredness
Headache
Mild chills
These reactions happen because the immune system is responding to the vaccine. They usually settle within 24 to 48 hours.
In children, you might also notice:
Fussiness or irritability
Poor appetite for a day
Sleepiness more than usual
These are typically temporary and improve quickly.
Some side effects are less common but can still occur.
These may include:
Higher fever
Muscle pain lasting more than two days
Mild rash
Nausea or feeling slightly unwell
Even these effects are usually short-term. If symptoms last longer or worsen, it is best to speak to a doctor.
Severe reactions are rare, but it is still important to know when to seek help.
Seek medical attention if you notice:
Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Widespread rash with itching
A very high fever that does not reduce
Severe weakness or fainting
Continuous crying or extreme drowsiness in a child
These symptoms could indicate an allergic reaction or another medical issue and should not be ignored.
Most people do not need special care. But these simple steps can help if you feel uncomfortable:
Rest for the day if you feel tired
Drink enough water
Keep the injection arm moving gently to reduce stiffness
Use a cold compress for swelling at the site
Eat light meals if your appetite is low
If fever or pain is significant, doctors may recommend paracetamol. Avoid self-medicating unnecessarily, especially in children, without guidance.
Protection does not begin instantly. The immune system usually needs time to build antibodies.
Many people start developing protection within 1 to 2 weeks, but the full benefit depends on the type of vaccine schedule, age, and health condition. Seniors and people with low immunity may require a doctor's advice on additional doses or boosters.
A pneumococcal shot is a preventive step that helps protect against serious bacterial infections, especially in children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses. Most side effects are mild, short-lived, and expected, such as arm soreness or a slight fever. The important thing is to recognise what is normal and what is not. If anything feels severe or unusual, seeking medical advice early is always the safest choice.
